Meeting last night (13), the cabinet’s attempts to ensure passage of the proposed constitutional reforms had to be put off due to strong objections by Rajitha Senaratne and Champika Ranawaka.

The prime minister submitted the proposals to limit powers of the presidency and to appoint independent commissions, but the two ministers insisted that electoral reforms too, should be included.

When Senaratne noted it went against the SLFP’s stance, justice minister Wijedasa Rajapaska said SLFP leaders have given their approval following several rounds of talks.

As the argument went on for some time, the president and the prime minister agreed to call a party leaders meeting on Sunday morning, to be followed by a special meeting of the cabinet.